Cross- Border Communities in Partnership Programme

‍

‍

The Communities in Partnership Programme has been running for the past three years, engaging more than 120 young people aged 16–18 from across County Armagh, Derry/Londonderry and Donegal. Designed as a cross-border, cross-community initiative, it has brought together students from schools including Lismore College (Craigavon), Magherafelt High School, The Royal and Prior Comprehensive School (Raphoe), and Loreto Community School (Milford). In its first two years, the programme also involved Portadown College and Loreto Community School (Poreto).

Supporting Year 13/Fifth Year politics students, the programme has offered a structured space to explore complex social and political issues. Supported by the International Fund for Ireland, it has focused on reconciliation and civic development, encouraging young people to ask challenging questions, engage with difficult topics, and develop confidence as emerging leaders. Through meetings with MLAs, TDs, MPs and international figures central to the Northern Ireland Peace Process, participants have been able to deepen their political understanding and amplify their voices.

The project has strengthened cross-border cooperation by involving schools, community organisations, teachers and parents, helping to build and sustain local leadership for the future.

Unfortunately, funding for this important programme is scheduled to end in December 2025. Politics in Action is deeply saddened to see a project with such proven impact conclude at a time of significant political turbulence. More than ever, young people need opportunities to shape the future of their communities and to contribute to a more peaceful and collaborative society across this island.

‍

When asked, what did you learn from this project, a participant responded “Making new friends, it was like an episode of Derry Girls.“  

“I have gained a lot of crucial skills such as teamwork, communication, public speaking and I have learned about mental health.”    

“Divisions can be overcome with communication.”

"PiA gives a licence to have conversations that are not orchestrated - students have the option to discuss what they want to discuss - where the curriculum is more restrictive....It's so hard to find time in the classroom- this [PiA] gives you the space to create those conversations." -Teacher

Dr. Thérèse Cullen, Project Manager at Politics in Action said: “There has been such important learning in this project for everyone involved.  We now better understand the impact of Brexit and of the border on the young people who live next to it.  There is an enormous amount to be gained by connecting students, teachers, schools and communities across the border”

‍